As spring training winds down, the Cubs showcased their depth in Peoria against the Mariners on Saturday night. While many of the regular starters stayed back, the players on the field delivered a convincing win, highlighting the potential of some key roster pieces.
The Cubs wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Miguel Amaya driving in a run with a single in the first inning. Colin Rea took the mound as the starter and showed solid form. Despite a hiccup with an errant pickoff throw in the second that allowed the Mariners to tie the game, Rea's performance was largely effective.
In the sixth inning, Dylan Carlson broke the deadlock with a solo shot, putting the Cubs back in the lead. Ben Cowles then extended the advantage with a clutch two-RBI single, pushing the score to 4-1.
The Cubs weren’t done yet. They added three more runs in the eighth, with Cowles contributing another RBI single, sealing a 7-1 victory.
So, what fueled the Cubs' win? Stellar pitching against a Mariners lineup filled with starters played a crucial role.
Key Stats to Note
Colin Rea's role in the pitching staff remains to be fully defined, but his performance here hints at his potential impact.
Moisés Ballesteros showed patience and skill with a hit and a walk.
Michael Conforto, fresh off the news of making the roster, celebrated with two hits, underscoring his readiness for the season.
The Takeaway
As the roster takes its final shape, the Cubs are making the necessary tweaks without much drama. The lineup battles have been minimal, allowing the team to focus on fine-tuning.
Looking Ahead
With just three games left in Arizona, the Cubs will host the Brewers at Sloan Park on Sunday afternoon at 2:05 pm CT. Cade Horton is set to start, with the game available on Marquee.